The Higher Education Commission (HEC) Islamabad has announced the Hungaricum Scholarship Programme for 2024-25. This fully funded opportunity, offered by the Hungarian Government, supports Pakistani students pursuing undergraduate, Master’s, and Ph.D. studies under the Higher Education and Scientific Exchange Programme.
Key Dates and Application Deadline
The final date to submit applications online is January 15, 2025. Candidates who have already passed the HAT or USAT tests are eligible to apply. Those who have not taken these tests can participate in the upcoming sessions scheduled for January or February.
Types of Scholarships Available
- Bachelor’s Degree: For students who have completed 12 years of education.
- One-Tier Master’s Degree: For students with 12 years of education.
- Master’s Degree: For applicants with 16 years of education.
- Ph.D. Degree: For candidates with 18 years of education.
Scholarship Benefits
The Hungaricum Scholarship covers the following:
- Tuition-Free Education: Complete exemption from tuition fees.
- Monthly Stipend:
- Bachelor’s and Master’s: HUF 43,700 (approx. €130).
- Ph.D.:
- HUF 140,000 (approx. €415) for the first phase (4 semesters).
- HUF 180,000 (approx. €530) for the second phase (4 semesters).
- The stipend is provided for 12 months per year until the completion of the program.
- Accommodation: Dormitory housing or a monthly contribution of HUF 40,000.
- Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage under Hungarian law, along with supplementary medical insurance.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Citizenship: Must be a Pakistani or AJ&K national.
- Age:
- Undergraduate: Between 18-22 years by January 15, 2025.
- Postgraduate (Master’s and Ph.D.): Maximum 35 years.
- Ph.D. applicants employed in public-sector R&D or universities: Maximum 40 years.
- Education Requirements:
- Undergraduate: Completion of HSSC or equivalent.
- Master’s: Completion of 16 years of education.
- Ph.D.: Completion of 18 years of education.
- Application Requirements:
- Complete both the Hungarian and HEC online application forms without leaving any fields blank.
- Attach attested certificates, transcripts, and degrees (from IBCC and HEC).
- Equivalence certificates for O & A levels from IBCC are mandatory.
- Submit IELTS/TOEFL scores if required.
- Provide a medical certificate confirming satisfactory health (certifying absence of diseases such as AIDS, Hepatitis A, B, C, or other epidemic conditions).
- Bond Agreement:
- Selected candidates must sign a bond ensuring their return to Pakistan upon completing their degree. Failure to comply will result in penalties, as per HEC guidelines.
Application Process
To apply, follow these steps:
- Submit online applications on both the Hungarian and HEC portals.
- Applications submitted to only one portal will be rejected.
- Maintain a record of all documents and print both application forms for reference.
- During the later stages, submit hard copies of:
- Both application forms.
- Attested copies of documents, including medical and police clearance certificates.
This scholarship is a unique opportunity to receive a world-class education while expanding your horizons. Don’t miss the chance—apply before January 15, 2025, and secure your future!
